Rachael & Emily

I have known Rachael for almost 10 years now, so when she told me that she was engaged to her girlfriend Emily and planning to elope—I was absolutely thrilled out of my mind. I got to know these two through their long-running tradition of "Adventure Tuesdays." They both had Tuesdays off due to their work schedule, and would each week plan a new hike, road trip, or place to explore. I joined along whenever I could, and they inspired me to make this a tradition in my own relationship. So when they got engaged, it was only perfectly fitting that Rachael & Emily chose to have an adventurous destination elopement in a new place they hadn't explored before—the Dolomites (Italian Alps)—their most adventurous Tuesday ever.

One of the most fun parts of the process of working with couples planning destination elopements, is assisting in the dreaming & exploring process and giving all of my best suggestions for locations for their ceremony & portraits. I spent countless hours scouring all of my favorite resources of maps, forums, and software to find the absolute most gorgeous views in South Tryol—which in my opinion is the most beautiful part of the Dolomites. I found a series of mountain passes that we could explore as well as the beautiful & iconic Lago Di Braies as a perfect place to say their vows in a bit of a warmer place than on top of a snowy mountain pass.

We started the day with a first look at sunrise right outside of their amazing AirBnB, which had the most incredible views—we could have happily stayed their all day, but we hit the road, and headed on our journey through the most beautiful scenery I've seen in my life. The Dolomites in May were very cold, with brutal winds at the top of these vistas and still plenty of snow—but these two kept each other warm—and when it came time to say their vows, I had a hard time looking through my viewfinder through all the tears. The scenery that we saw that day was unlike anything I've ever experienced. The Alps are truly world class, and as a die-hard mountain lover, I was in absolute heaven and I can't wait to go back.

We're Maddie Mae, Amber, & Tori. We are adventurous elopement photographers & guides based in Colorado that travel worldwide to help fearless couples like you create your unforgettable, wildly different wedding experience—that is completely yours.

Are You Ready to Create Your Own Adventurous Elopement?

If you would like help dreaming up your intimate wedding day, a customized elopement location idea list just for you, planning tools, vendor recommendations, and a creative, laid-back, documentary approach to your adventurous wedding photography—we would love to help you make your adventure elopement dreams come true.